7 Post-Gynecomastia Surgery Care Tips

Gynecomastia can be an embarrassing condition for many men, and could reduce their confidence and self-esteem. Gynecomastia surgery is a heaven-sent solution in such cases, and proper post-operative care ensures that they heal faster and with fewer complications. Failure to provide the righty care may lead to many problems including complications, infection and even the need for repeat surgery. The basic post-gynecomastia surgery care tips that should be adhered to following the procedure include:

Dealing with Nausea

Following gynecomastia, you are likely to experience the side effects of antibiotics and pain medication that will be prescribed. One of the commonest of these that you should anticipate is nausea. This is a common problem, and can be controlled by taking anti-emetic medication such as Zofran immediately you get the urge to puke. Taking pain medications and analgesics with food can also be used as a way to reduce the risk of nausea due to taking them. Consider stopping the pain medication and consulting your surgeon if the nausea persists, or if it progresses to severe vomiting.

Diet

Immediately after the surgery, it is recommended that you consume clear fluids first, and then resume your usual solid diet in small quantities as tolerated. During the recovery period, ensure that you eat regular nutritious meals and drink lots of water or fruit juice to prevent dehydration. Avoid carbonated or caffeinated drinks. Alcoholic drinks should also be avoided for 72 hours following treatment.

Physical Activity

Avoid driving for a minimum of three days following the surgery, or when you have taken pain medication. You may feel impaired after surgery, in which case you should also avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Wound Care and Hygiene

Avoid showering for the first 24 hours following surgery. This is to prevent the post-gynecomastia surgerywoundsand bandages from getting wet. If you really need to take a shower, have a sponge bath avoiding the bandaged areas. The bandages will be removed by the healthcare provider, after which they will advise you on proper wound care and how to shower with the bandage in place.

Avoid Blood Thinners

Avoid using blood thinners such as aspirin or any products that contain aspiring for at least a week. To be safe, use the pain medication prescribed by the doctor only. If you are not satisfied with this, you can consult them for an alternative.

Using Ice Packs

You can apply ice packs on the breast area for the first 48 hours post-surgery. These should not be placed directly on the skin, as the area will be numb and extended exposure could result in burning of the skin.

Getting Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is important after any surgery as it gives your body time to heal. Following gynecomastia surgery, you are advised to sleep at a 45-degree angle for three days following the surgery. This can be done by piling pillows behind your back and head. Always adjust your pillows to make sure that you are comfortable in this position. Consider taking Alprazolam 1 hour before bedtime to help you sleep, since anesthetics may interfere with your sleep cycles. The alprazolam should be taken at least one hour before or after you take your pain medication.

Are you interestedin getting gynecomastia surgery? Dr. Robert S. Fischer will set up a confidential consultation session with you and evaluate if you are a good candidate for this surgery procedure.Simply get in touch with us for professional advice and guidance.